2015 Chevy Corvette Performance and Design

The seventh-generation Chevy Corvette’s due to appear late 2014. The prototype actually appeared much earlier, though, in the movie Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen. giving us a look at it’s striking new appearance in comparison to earlier generations. General Motors president Mark Reuss said the new Corvette would be “completely different,” but only time will tell.

PerformanceThere were speculations that the new Corvette might make the switch to a mid-engine layout, but engineers have defended the sixth generation’s front mounted engine and it seems that the rumors have no merit. The seventh generation, 2015, Corvette will have the standard front engine, rear-wheel-drive setup, just as it always has, but with a couple possible changes.

The 6.2 liter V8 engine producing 498 horse-power is most likely to stay right where it is under the front hood, but there is the possibility that it’ll be downsized, somewhere in the 5.5-liter range engines similar to the fifth generation small-blocks. The newer engines, while smaller, produce more power and torque while achieving better fuel economy, something that even the sports car drivers are looking for.

Another engine possibility is the 3.6 liter V6 engine, in a single- or twin-turbocharged design, something that might appeal to world markets a little more than the big V8s. This might seem strange to Corvette fans, but it’s a move General Motors is going to have to take in order to meet the stricter emissions regulations both here in the United States and in Europe.

There is in the works a new seven speed manual transmission, trying to keep up with one of its main competitors, the Porsche 911, which is offering a seven speed transmission in 2012. There were rumors of an optional dual-clutch automated transmission, but it seems likely General Motors will stick with a standard automatic system.

DesignGeneral Motors design chief, Ed Welburn, admits that the sixth generation interior is a disappointment but is promising that the seventh generation is going to be absolutely world class. The new Corvette has a slightly longer wheelbase, something that will help improve the car’s handling and ride comfort.

The body won’t be radically different than the sixth generation, with a long and low hood, fighter-cockpit cabin styling, and high and wide rear end to accommodate the wide axle and big tires. Tail lights are inspired by the Camaro’s rear end, and four center-mounted exhaust tips similar to the concept car seen in 2009.

The car will be available in both hard-top and soft-top versions. Using new materials, an aluminum space frame, and carbon-fiber and fiber-glass body, might be expensive, but it will cut the overall weight of the vehicle. Less than 3,000 pounds, this is a move that will trim some more off fuel consumption and make for a more sporty driving experience.

The Final WordFor a while, there were rumors and speculations going about the actually appearance of the new 2015 Chevy Corvette, but nothing concrete. In a facebook post, after someone posted some renderings of the as-yet-unreleased car and it’s final design, General Motors responded, “We appreciate their enthusiasm but you’ll have to wait a little longer to see what the next Corvette will actually look like.” So it seems we’ll have to wait for the 2013 or 2014 International Auto Show circuit to see Corvette’s true form.